Alpine Racing has retained Franco Colapinto for full F1 2026 to partner Pierre Gasly to complete its line-up after a step up from the Argentine.
After Alpine fielded Jack Doohan in the first six races of 2025 F1 season, they announced Colapinto for the next five races initially, but it was eventually clear that he will see-through the season. He did not perform well straight up, as it co-incided with the team’s dip in performance.
But after few races under his belt, Colapinto started to look better when compared against teammate Gasly. Off-late, he has shown good pace, both in qualifying and also in the races. With no big names linked to replace apart from its reserve Paul Aron, it became clear that the Argentine might stay on.
It has been eventually confirmed ahead of the F1 Brazil GP weekend, which is closest grand prix to his home in Argentina. Colapinto will get to start a full season unlike the previous two years. It will give him ample time to prepare himself for a brand new start to the sport as well.
“I am very grateful to Flavio and the entire team for their belief in me to help drive the team forwards in the future,” said Colapinto. “Ever since I made my Formula One debut, I knew, given the circumstances at play, it would be a huge challenge to keep my place in this sport. It has been a long and tough road, and I am very proud for the opportunity to drive with this team again in 2026, alongside Pierre, who has been a great team-mate and will undoubtedly be someone I can continue to learn from.
“Finally, it is very special and timely to make this announcement here in Brazil this weekend. Being so close to my home country of Argentina and an event that feels like a home race for me where I have so much support. To have so many fans on this journey with me and the team is why we go racing and next year, when there should be a reset in Formula One, we can hopefully give every single person who cheers for us something to truly smile and celebrate. Vamos Alpine!”
Flavio Briatore added: “I’ve been following Franco’s progress throughout his time in Formula One and I have always believed that he has the right attributes and potential to be a top driver who can grow with the team. Our decision to continue together for 2026 is a clear indication of our commitment and strong support for Franco as he develops as a race driver.
“It has been a tough year for the whole team, and it hasn’t been the easiest scenario to perform in, however both Franco and Pierre have done their best to help put the team in the best possible position for next season. With the line-up of Pierre and Franco, we have a good blend of experience, speed and talent that will help drive the team forward and hopefully give our fans something to cheer and shout about next season.”
Here’s Pierre Gasly on F1 2026 confidence
Here’s Franco Colapinto on unable to show pace